Boris Johnson has said that Russian president Vladimir Putin will “double down” on his invasion of Ukraine and “continue with the destruction”.
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The prime minister said Western nations needed to respond to Mr Putin’s aggression with an “intensified package” and thanked European neighbours for “delivering support for the Ukrainians and support for the Ukrainian right to self-defence.”
It comes as Russia announced a ceasefire in two cities in Ukraine to allow residents to evacuate.
In an interview with foreign newspapers, Mr Johnson added: “Putin also underestimated Western unity, and the governments of all the countries represented around this table have really worked together, very effectively, to produce a package of economic sanctions that has had a very considerable effect on Russia.”
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky made clear in a late-night address on Friday that he felt the West needed to do more to defend Ukraine, criticising Nato for its refusal to impose a no-fly zone.
Meanwhile, British nationals in Russia whose presence is “not essential” have been told to consider leaving the country, updated travel advice on the Foreign Office website.
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Demonstrators have unfurled a giant banner on the steps of the National Gallery reading: “When the last Ukrainian soldier falls, Putin will come for you ladies & gents.”
Others are carrying placards saying “Putin terrorist” and “Protect Ukraine, save Europe”, and many are draped in the blue and yellow national flag of Ukraine.
The rally comes on the 10th day of Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine, as the heavy bombardment of many cities by Russian forces continues and refugees stream out of the country to join the more than a million who have already fled.
Energy bills will skyrocket from 1 April when the current price cap is lifted, while National Insurance Contributions are set to rise four days later. Petrol prices and food costs are all already climbing steeply.
Taken together, it all means the country is set to experience the worst financial squeeze in 60 years, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies.
British nationals who are still in Russia have been told they should leave if it is not essential they stay in the country.
The Foreign Office updated its advice on Saturday to say Britons should use the remaining commercial routes to flee the nation.
The prime minister said on Twitter: “The courage of these journalists, putting themselves in terrifying and dangerous situations, is astonishing to watch.
“They’re risking their lives to ensure that the truth is told.
“Free press will not be intimidated or cowed by barbaric and indiscriminate acts of violence.”
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